Q. I’d like to volunteer with the VCDS as a Driver. Where do I start?

Please refer to the ‘Volunteer Info’ section of our website. Once your application is received, you will be guided through each of the necessary steps toward your qualification as a volunteer driver.

Q. What areas do you not need drivers?

The Freemasons have a similar program running, therefore we can’t accept drivers living in Richmond, Burnaby or Vancouver. If you live in those areas please contact them directly at the Freemasons Website here.

Q. How far will I have to drive?

Remember, you can always change your mind. It is useful to know that the main facilities served are BC Cancer Surrey (SMH), BC Cancer Vancouver (VGH area) and BC Cancer Abbotsford (ARH). We have drivers positioned in several regions throughout the Lower Mainland to affect the most efficient use of our drivers. Our Dispatchers do of course appreciate flexibility from the drivers, but rest assured, we will never insist you do something you do not wish to do. You will be oriented in each of the facilities you agree to drive to.

Q. Do I get reimbursed for gas and parking expenses

We reimburse our drivers approximately .44 cents per kilometre and parking is complimentary through each hospital or treatment centre. Once you are a driver with the VCDS we will tell you how.

Q. What are my obligations when it comes to driving in snow

Driving during snow events is discouraged. Never compromise your or the patient’s safety for any reason. If you are driving in the snow, you must have legal winter tires with at least 3.5 mm tread depth.

Q. Will I be required to sign a contract

On our online volunteer drivers application form you will be asked to acknowledge and agree to our “Code of Ethics and Privacy Policy” and our “Volunteer Drivers Addendum”. At the completion of your Orientation, you will physically sign a similar document and return it to the Driver Coordinator to be included in your file.

Q. When is your driving service available

Our volunteer drivers will pick patients up Monday to Friday and for appointments as early as 8 am and late as 6pm.

Q. Are your drivers vetted

Yes, we require all drivers to submit a criminal record check and their ICBC Drivers Abstract (driving history).

Q. Will I be charged for gas or parking

The drivers are volunteers are reimbursed by the VCDS for gas and parking is complimentary from the hospital or treatment centres. You will never be asked by the driver for money to cover these costs.

Q. Am I driven to and from appointments by the same driver

Yes, our volunteer drivers pick you up from home, wait for you, then drive you back home.

Q. Can I request a specific volunteer driver for all of my appointments

Yes you can however on occasion your favourite driver may not be available. But there is no need to worry, all of our drivers are wonderful, kind and caring.

Q. Can a family member or friend accompany me

Yes, of course. Sometimes patients need some support from someone they know or need assistance walking into the appointment because they have a wheelchair or walker. That being said, if you have a wheelchair or a walker there may be only room for one more person to accommodate you depending on the vehicle.

Q. How much room is there for a wheelchair or walker

We have drivers that can accommodate a wheelchair or walker. Let us know when booking your ride which of the two you have so that we can assign an appropriate volunteer driver. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate electric wheelchairs.

Q. What happens if my appointment is cancelled

This is a pretty common question. If your appointment is cancelled please call your volunteer driver and let them know. We understand that appointments get cancelled. When you are ready to book your ride again, simply call 604-515-5400 or fill out our online forms here www.volunteercancerdrivers.ca/book-a-ride.